Beyond the School Walls: Family Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: Families and Children Navigating During COVID-19

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine family engagement practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 school social workers during Spring 2020 and again in Fall 2020. Analysis of the data revealed three primary themes related to family engagement practices: reasons for engaging families, ways of engaging families, and challenges in family engagement. As schools transition into the post-COVID era, the results of this study can be useful in reimagining schools’ relationships with families and communities. If we want to build and sustain equitable and just education experiences for all students, we must look beyond the four walls of the school and consider students’ larger ecological contexts, most importantly, the well-being of their families.

Authors

• Erin Sugrue, Augsburg University

• Danielle R. Harrell, University of Texas - Arlington

• Annahita Ball, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Ashley-Marie H. Daftary, University of Nevada - Reno